🍗 Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles – Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside!

If you’re craving something golden, savory, and satisfying—without deep frying—these Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles are about to become your new go-to. They’re tender on the inside, irresistibly crisp on the outside, and absolutely bursting with flavor.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or casual entertaining, these rissoles take humble ground chicken and elevate it into juicy little flavor bombs. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you’ll get that classic pan-fried crisp without the mess (or the extra oil). Let’s dig in!

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

These rissoles are made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen:

  • 500g (1 lb) ground chicken (thigh or breast, or a mix)
  • 1 small zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for added depth)
  • Olive oil spray

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, zucchini, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, and seasonings. Mix until everything is well incorporated but don’t overwork the meat.

Step 2: Shape the Rissoles

Scoop out about 2–3 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into small patties. Flatten them slightly with your palms—they should be about 2 cm (¾ inch) thick.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Place the rissoles in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 75°C / 165°F).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with a bit of chopped parsley or chives and serve immediately while they’re hot and juicy!

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Make it cheesy: Add a handful of grated cheddar or mozzarella for a melty surprise in the center.
  • Add heat: Mix in a finely chopped chili or a dash of chili flakes for spice lovers.
  • Freeze-friendly: Shape and freeze raw rissoles on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the air fryer time.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

🍽️ How to Serve

These rissoles are super versatile:

  • Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies for a comforting dinner.
  • Add to wraps with hummus, lettuce, and tomato for a quick lunch.
  • Toss into a salad bowl for a low-carb, high-protein option.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store cooked rissoles in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Pop them in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 4–5 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again.

These Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles check all the boxes: crispy, juicy, easy, and healthy-ish. Whether you’re cooking for kids, meal prepping for the week, or just need a protein-packed snack, they’re always a win.

Ready to make them? Save this recipe and let your air fryer work its magic!